Transcranial Photobiomodulation for ADHD

This trial tests a non-invasive treatment called transcranial photobiomodulation (tPBM) to determine its effectiveness in improving brain function and reducing symptoms in adults with ADHD. tPBM uses light therapy on the forehead to target brain areas involved in attention and memory. The study will compare results between participants receiving the actual light therapy and those receiving a sham (placebo) version. It seeks adults diagnosed with ADHD who speak English and either take stable ADHD medication or none at all. As an unphased trial, this study offers participants the chance to contribute to innovative research that could lead to new ADHD treatments.

You can continue taking your current ADHD medications as long as your regimen has been stable for at least two weeks before the study starts.

Studies have shown that transcranial photobiomodulation (tPBM), which uses light to stimulate the brain, is effective and well-tolerated in adults with ADHD. Research indicates that this treatment can improve working memory and attention without causing serious side effects. Previous findings suggest that most people experience few to no negative effects. Although specific safety data for tPBM in ADHD is not available, the absence of reported serious issues in similar applications supports its potential safety.¹²³⁴⁵

Unlike the typical ADHD treatments, which often involve stimulant medications like Ritalin or Adderall, transcranial photobiomodulation (tPBM) is unique because it uses light therapy to target the brain's prefrontal cortex. Researchers are excited about this non-invasive approach because it represents a new mechanism of action, potentially offering benefits without the side effects associated with medications. Additionally, tPBM's direct brain stimulation could provide faster and more targeted relief of ADHD symptoms.

This trial will compare active transcranial photobiomodulation (tPBM) with a sham procedure for ADHD. Research has shown that tPBM might help with ADHD, as studies have found it can boost working memory and attention in adults with the condition. Participants in these studies noticed mild to moderate improvements in their ADHD symptoms and experienced better selective attention, which is crucial for managing ADHD. This suggests that tPBM could be an effective and non-invasive treatment option.¹⁶⁷⁸⁹